Course Listings

Comparative Literature and the History of Ideas

CLHI 210 (IT) Oral Tradition and Performance in African Literature (1)

[Crosslisted with ANTH 210 and FREN 210]

This course explores how contemporary written literature in Africa continues to derive a great deal of its vitality from older traditions of verbal art. Initially the course will examine sample texts from the oral tradition. It will next focus on representative texts by major African writers whose works have made use of said oral tradition as well as examine their social and political contexts. The principal concern of the course will be the analysis of the aesthetic implications of the transposition of oral techniques and structural features into the medium of the written/printed word. Conducted in English.

Mode of Inquiry: Interpreting Texts

• Offering: Annually
• Instructor: Fofana

CLHI 250 Introduction to Comparative Literature and the History of Ideas (1)

This course will introduce students to the nature of inquiry in comparative literature and intellectual history, emphasizing modes of textual criticism, reading texts in historical and cultural contexts, and reading texts across national, cultural and linguistic boundaries. Students will be encouraged to read works in the original language whenever possible.

• Offering: Alternate years in spring
• Instructor: Staff

CLHI 491 Independent Study in Comparative Literature and the History of Ideas (1)

Directed reading and/or research in Comparative Literature and the History of Ideas. Open only to juniors or seniors, and designated specifically as an alternative means for completion of the senior experience in Comparative Literature and History of Ideas when Humanities Senior Seminars useful to a student are unavailable.

• Offering: Annually
• Instructor: Staff

CLHI 497 (W) Humanities Senior Seminar (1)

[Crosslisted with HUM 497 (W)]

A comparative study of the thought and artistry of major writers, artists, and monuments within the context of a movement or historical period. Taught by faculty in humanities and literature subject fields and designed to provide seniors majoring in these subjects with an opportunity to synthesize their liberal arts experience. A visiting scholar enhances each seminar. Variable content.

General Education Requirement Fulfillment: Writing centered

• Offering: Every semester
• Instructor: Staff